How did you first find out about bariatric surgery and what were your initial impressions of it?

I started reading about Bariatric Surgery probably about 10 years ago. Then it was just stapling. A local Dr. here in Dallas started doing the surgeries and I inquired about it at least 4 times. When my Dr. recommended the surgery, I finally seriously requested information. It was at this time that I saw an ad for Bariatric Treatment Centers. What a God-send to find out there was one in my local area! I felt comfortable from the very start with BTC! I knew that they were in total understanding of the emotional and physical turmoil I was in. I felt like I had come home! Their office was actually set up with chairs that I could fit in without hanging over the sides, and everyone else in the waiting room was there for the same reason I was! For once, I didn't feel like I didn't belong! I will sing my praises for BTC for ever more! What a life changing, life saving experience it has been for me!

What was your stay in the hospital like? How long where you there? What things are most important to bring?

My hospital stay was wonderful...I actually didn't want to leave! The nurses were like family to me! I was there for four days and couldn't have been in better hands! I brought too much junk to the hospital! Other than a pair of pajama's for day three (an of course, underclothes), I didn't need anything! I was given a "goody bag" with toothbrush, lotion, chapstick, and various other necessities in it upon my arrival (so I actually didn't need to pack all the stuff I had). I brought a book to read, but found that if I wasn't up walking, then I was sleeping so I didn't read more than 10 or 20 pages! DO bring your pillow from home! It helped me feel a little more at home!

Describe your first few weeks home from the hospital. What should people expect from this period?

My first few weeks at home were pretty uncomfortable. I literally lived in the recliner in my living room! Besides being SORE, I was a little nauseous from the pain medications. I didn't find myself hungry or thirsty at this time, and it was a battle to make myself follow the recommended eating (or drinking) plan! I only got up to walk a little, or to use the ladies room. It was not a pleasant time, but....I'd do it again in a heartbeat!

What aftercare support group/program do you have? How helpful/important is this?

We have a wonderful support group that meets the third Tuesday of every month! I am very happy to be part of this. It has been very helpful to be with others who are going through, or have gone through the same stages of weight loss that I am! We share stories, recipes, and just love and support each other. It's awesome!

What is your scar like? Is this what you expected?

My scar is about 8 inches long. It goes straight down the middle of my stomach. It was bright red at first, but has now started to turn a silvery white looking color. I am a redhead, so my skin is very, very light anyway. The scar is raised a little bit, but not enough to make me feel uncomfortable. I tease my family saying..."If I decided to wear a bikini, you better all look at this scar and tell me how beautiful it is!" The scar is worth every centimeter because of the way I feel now! I almost feel beautiful after losing the weight and my energy level is so great I can't believe I used to be confined to my living room!

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I have actually been whistled at! It's been over 15 years since that's happend to me! I also don't feel like people stare at me when I go into restaurants anymore. I used to get the "Man, she's going to eat the whole all-u-can-eat bar" look! Now, I look like almost everyone else and I fit into the booth with LOTS of room to spare now!